Photo|Courtesy

The Transitional National Legislative Assembly has ordered the immediate demolition of illegal structures built on school grounds and other public land across South Sudan.

The directive follows reports of widespread encroachment on educational institutions, including Juba One, Malakia Primary School, and Juba Commercial Secondary School.

A Tuesday deliberation on a report regarding the proposed transfer of Rumbek Secondary School to Rumbek University of Science and Technology led to the decision. Lawmakers reversed the proposal, saying land grabbing is affecting schools nationwide.

They said shops and residential buildings have been constructed inside school compounds. The order also applies to church land and police stations affected by encroachment.

Chairperson of the Parliamentary Information Committee, Oliver Mori Benjamin, said authorities have been instructed to act on the matter.

He said: “Authorities in the states are directed to take the necessary steps to ensure that all school land that has been grabbed is returned to the schools.”

He added: “Those with structures are given a chance to remove them or face demolition. This decision applies to all school compounds that have been encroached upon across the country. The issue is not only in Rumbek, but in schools throughout South Sudan.”

In May 2024, the Cabinet chaired by President Salva Kiir Mayardit banned the sale or lease of school land and other public property.

The Deputy Minister of Information, Jacob Mijok Korok, confirmed that the Cabinet approved the removal of illegal structures on school land in Juba and other regions.

State authorities have been directed to reclaim occupied land, with those affected given a deadline to remove their property before enforcement begins.